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Prof. Hui Tag
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Email: editor.jbr@rgu.ac.in
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Article Content
VOLUME 11 (2): APR – JUNE 2024
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Review Article
A review on diversity of floristic elements in the Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh
Suman Halder1, Hui Tag2*, Vineet Kumar Rawat1#, Akshat Shenoy1, Arijit Ghosh1, S.S. Dash3, A.A. Mao3
1Botanical Survey of India, Arunachal Pradesh Regional Centre, Senki View, Itanagar – 791111, Arunachal Pradesh, India.
2Plant Systematics and Ethnobotanical Research Laboratory, Department of Botany, Rajiv Gandhi University, Rono Hills, Doimukh-791112, Arunachal Pradesh, India.
3Botanical Survey of India, Head Quarter, Salt Lake, Kolkata – 700064, West Bengal, India.
Corresponding author: huitag2008rgu@gmail.com
#Equally contributed Second first author.
Article No.: SHJBR53; Received: 13.06.2023; Peer-reviewed: 09.11.2023; Revised & Accepted: 19.06.2024; Published: 30.06.2024
DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenod0.12578344
View Abstract | PDF
Abstract: The present review deals with the floristic accounts, diversity elements and statistics of the flora of Arunachal Pradesh from earlier period of 1820 to 2023.
This study revealed the richness and representativeness of the rare and endemic flora of the state which accounts for nearly 32.86% of the total flora of the state. The study also highlighted vital
statistics of angiosperm, gymnosperm, fern and fern allies, botanically curious plants, phytogeographical affinities, medicinal and economic plants, and also suggested need for accelerating focused
exploratory research and conservation efforts, as many species have been identified under threat category due to habitat loss triggered by anthropogenic activities. The results of this review provide
deep insight into the floristic diversity of Arunachal Pradesh which will aid in accelerating further exploratory and applied research for the improvement of effective conservation policies to upscale
ecosystem resilience and sustainable economic utilization of plant bioresources..
Keywords: Diversity; Arunachal Pradesh; Endemism; Data; Floristic Elements; Conservation
Review Article
Phage therapy: a promising cure for bacterial infections in humans
Swagata Karmakar1*#, Gunjan Kumar Saurav2*, Sumpam Tangjang3, Karuna Yadav4, Lune Yirang2, Osunam Paron2
1 Department of Environmental Studies, Ram Lal Anand College, University of Delhi, Delhi - 110021, India.
2 Insect Biology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Rajiv Gandhi University, Doimukh, Arunachal Pradesh-791112, India.
3 Department of Botany, Rajiv Gandhi University, Doimukh, Arunachal Pradesh-791112, India.
4 Department of Zoology, Maitreyi College, University of Delhi, Delhi-110021, India
Corresponding email ID: sway.swagata@gmail.com
*These authors have contributed equally to this work and share first authorship.
Article No.: SKJBR52; Received: 27.05.2023; Peer-reviewed: 15.07.2023; Second peer-reviewed: 13.11.2023; Accepted: 20.02.2024; Published on 30.06.2024
DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenod0.12578280
View Abstract | PDF
Abstract: Phage therapy uses bacteriophages (viruses) that eliminate bacteria, as a substitute to antibiotics to cure bacterial infection.
With the significant increase of antibiotic-resistant strains, bacterial infections have become a very challenging global health concern. In contrast to antibiotics,
phage therapy has various benefits, like its narrow host range that selectively targets specific bacterial strains while not affecting beneficial microbiota. Phages
can be conveniently isolated and produced on a large scale, potentially making phage therapy a cost-effective alternative for bacterial illness. The history of the phage
therapy started in early 20th century when it’s potential for combating bacterial infections was discovered. With the discovery of antibiotics, its popularity declined
in Western world, but it remained in use in Eastern Europe. The ever-increasing antibiotic resistance against antibiotics, has again renewed our interest in phage therapy.
Phages have a complex life cycle involving the lytic and lysogenic cycles. Phage therapy utilizes various mechanisms, including inhibition of cell wall biosynthesis in growing
bacterial cell by phages with small genome and production of several protein like holin and endolysin (that lyse the cell membrane of the host bacteria) and modulation of host
immune reaction by phages with large genome. Promising results of phage therapy have been found while treating bacterial infections caused by multidrug-resistant bacterial
strains. However, issues such as phage resistance and immune responses are required to be addressed. Despite these challenges, phage therapy has proven to be viable approach
to combat bacterial infections, especially against antibiotic resistance bacterial strains. There is need for further study and development in field of phage therapy for
realizing its full potential in clinical practice.
Keywords: Phage therapy, Antibiotic Resistance, Bacterial Infection, Bacteriophages, Cost-effective Treatment, Beneficial Microbiota, Selective Targeting
Review Article
Unveiling insights into the ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry, and pharmacological properties of Garcinia xanthochymus L.: a systematic review
Nongmaithem Randhoni Chanu1,2, Kunal Bhattacharya1,3*, Dibyajyoti Das1,4, Saikat Sen2, Satyendra Deka1
1Pratiksha Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guwahati-781026, Assam, India.
2Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Assam downtown University, Guwahati-781026, Assam, India.
3Royal School of Pharmacy, The Assam Royal Global University, Guwahati-781035, Assam, India.
4Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Dibrugarh University, Dibrugarh, Assam-786004, India.
*†Corresponding author email: kunal22101994@gmail.com (Kunal Bhattacharya)
Article No.: KBJBR76; Received: 29.11.2023; Revised: 10.03.2024. Accepted: 11-03-2024; Published: 30.06.2024.
Doi: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.11213133
View Abstract | PDF
Abstract: The objective of this work was to compile information on the phytochemical profile, traditional uses, and pharmacological
properties of Garcinia xanthochymus. A literature review was conducted, including published books, journals, and papers. Databases such as Google Scholar, Science Direct, Scopus,
PubMed, ProQuest, and others were used to gather information. Chem Sketch 5.0 was used to sketch the chemical structures of phytoconstituents. The fruits of Garcinia xanthochymus
are traditionally used as an anthelmintic, appetite stimulant, and cardiotonic. Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of polyprenylated benzophenone derivatives such as
xanthochymol and isoxanthymol, flavones and xanthones, and other phytochemicals in the bark, leaves, roots, twigs, and seeds. These phytochemicals contribute to the plant's
pharmacological activity. This review provides up-to-date data on the phytochemical profile, traditional uses, and pharmacological properties of Garcinia xanthochymus.
The information gathered from this study can be useful for further research on this plant and its potential therapeutic applications.
Keywords: Garcinia xanthochymus; Phytochemical Constituents; Ethnopharmacology; Therapeutic Activity
Review Article
Role of probiotics in improving Gut microbiome and its association with IBS and psychiatric conditions
Kuntal1*, Bhumika Chauhan1, Anjali Jha1, Madhu Yashpal1 and Seema Kalra2
1Department of Zoology, Gargi College, University of Delhi, Delhi -110007, India.
2School of Sciences, Indira Gandhi National Open University, Maidan Garhi, New Delhi – 110068.
*Corresponding Author email: kuntal@gargi.du.ac.in (Kuntal)
Article No.: KJBR88; Received: 27.03.2024; Revised: 15.06.2024. Accepted: 21-06-2024; Published: 30.06.2024
Doi: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenod0.12578114
View Abstract | PDF
Abstract: The human gut harbours a diverse ecosystem known as the gut microbiota, comprising numerous microbial species essential
for various physiological functions. This intricate community influences digestion, immune response, and metabolic regulation, impacting overall health. Dysbiosis, an imbalance
in gut microbial composition, has been implicated in conditions ranging from gastrointestinal disorders to psychiatric illnesses. Probiotics, live microorganisms that confer
health benefits when administered in adequate amounts, have gained attention for their potential to modulate the gut microbiota and improve health outcomes. Primarily derived
from genera like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, probiotics exert their effects through mechanisms such as competitive inhibition of pathogens, enhancement of gut barrier
function, and modulation of immune responses. Moreover, probiotics influence the gut-brain axis, a bidirectional communication network linking gut microbiota to brain function
and behaviour, thereby impacting conditions like anxiety, depression, and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), characterised by abdominal discomfort
and altered bowel habits, exemplifies a condition where probiotics have shown promise in alleviating symptoms and improving gut health. Similarly, probiotics have demonstrated
potential in psychiatric disorders as adjunctive therapies, mitigating symptoms by influencing inflammatory pathways and neurotransmitter production. This review explores the
intricate relationship between probiotics, gut health, and psychiatric disorders, emphasising their interconnected nature via the gut-brain axis. It highlights the therapeutic
potential of probiotics in restoring gut microbiota balance and alleviating symptoms of both gastrointestinal and psychiatric conditions. However, while promising, optimal
probiotic strains, dosages, and treatment durations warrant further investigation to maximize therapeutic efficacy and ensure safety, especially in immunocompromised
individuals. In conclusion, leveraging probiotics to modulate gut microbiota represents a promising therapeutic strategy for addressing the complex interplay between
gut health and psychiatric disorders. Continued research and clinical trials are essential to establish standardized guidelines for probiotic use and fully realize
their potential in enhancing patient outcomes across various health conditions.
Keywords: Gut Microbiota; Gut-brain Axis; Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS); Psychiatric disorders; Probiotics
Review Article
Ethnobotany of wild edible plants used by Rabha community of Goalpara district in Assam, India
Sangeeta Deka1, Jayshree Das2*, Ajitabh Bora2, Om Prakash Tripathi3, Rigzen Angmo2, Neeraj Das2
1Department of Botany, Pandit Deendayal Upadhaya Adarsha Mahavidyalaya, Amjonga, Goalpara - 783124, Assam, India.
2Defence Research Laboratory, Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), Ministry of Defence, Tezpur - 784001, Assam, India.
3Department of Environmental Sciences, Mizoram University, Aizawl - 796004, Mizoram, India.
*Corresponding author email: jdas.drl@gov.in
Article No.: JDJBR61; Received: 25.06.2023; Peer-reviewed: 24.11.2023; Revised and Accepted: 15.02.2024; Published: 31.03.2024
DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.11081548
View Abstract | PDF
Abstract: The Rabha community of Assam is known to have a close association with nature since time immemorial. They mostly dwell in the periphery of forests and utilize natural resources in the form of various provisioning services such as food,
fuel, medicine etc. Locally available vegetation is an integral part of their regular diet and traditional dishes. Although extensive studies on wild edible plants (WEPs) consumed by various tribes
from different parts of the state have been previously accomplished by several authors, there is a meagre information on the WEPs consumed by the Rabha community. The present study documented WEPs
from the selected region of Rabha in Goalpara district of Assam, based on standard ethnobotanical field method and literature review. The study recorded 51 species of WEP belonging to 45 genera
and 30 families. Plant parts such as fruit, leaf, seed, tuber, flower, rhizome, shoot, stem, root or the entire plant are consumed. The most widely consumed plant parts harvested were noted to
be fruit (17 species) and the least was stem and frond (1/each). WEPs are consumed in different modes such as vegetables, fruits and other forms such as spices, condiments, nuts etc.
The plants are mainly consumed either cooked (55%) or raw (14%), while others are traditionally processed (10%). A few species (2-10%) had a bi or tri-modal form of consumption. The findings emphasized
the significance of reinforcement to food security and conservation of the plant-based knowledge of the Rabha community for ensuring a sustainable diet source from the wild botanicals.
Keywords: Sesamum indicum; Biodiesel; Catalyst; Compression Ignition; Alkyl ester; Transesterification.
Research Article
Seasonal variation in the macrophyte species of Loktak Lake, a Ramsar Site in the North East India
Thingujam Manithoi Singh1, Bijay Thakur1, Prajnyan Sarma1, Mutum Sanjoy Singh2, Ashalata Devi1
1School of Sciences, Department of Environmental Science, Tezpur University, Napaam, Assam, India.
2North Eastern Regional Institute of Science and Technology, Nirjuli, Arunachal Pradesh.
*Corresponding author email: ashalatadevi12@gmail.com
Article No.: SHJBR84; Received: 14.04.2024; Peer-reviewed: 09.05.2024; Accepted: 30.05.024; Published: 30.06.2024
DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenod0.12578312
View Abstract | PDF
Abstract: An investigation on distribution of macrophyte species was carried out in the Loktak lake, a Ramsar Site in Manipur, India which
is the largest freshwater lake in the North East India. The lake is located between the geographical coordinates 93˚46′-93˚55′ E and 24˚25′-24˚41′ N, altitude 768 m asl and
spans 246.72 km2. The study aimed to determine the species diversity, distribution, and density of macrophytes in the lake that is experiencing degradation problems. A total of
26 sites located across the lake were examined over a period of four seasons as per the Indian Meteorological Department during 2020-2021. Phytosociological method was followed
using opportunistic sampling, where 5 quadrats measuring 1x1 m2 were placed in each site. Quantitative parameters of the community, such as density, frequency, abundance, IVI,
and A/F ratio, were computed. A total of 47 macrophyte species under 40 genera and 19 families were recorded across the lake. Highest number of macrophyte species (47) were
recorded during the monsoon season, while the least number of species (27) were recorded during pre-monsoon season. The highest species diversity was recorded for Poaceae (12).
The dominant species which were consistently found throughout the year were Alternanthera philoxeroides, Azolla filliculoides, Brachiaria mutica, Leersia hexandra,
Zizania latifolia, Hydrilla verticillata, Limnophila aquatica, and Rotala rotundifolia. Various economically significant plants, such as Hedychium flavum, Ipomoea aquatica,
Nelumbo nucifera, Nymphaea nouchali, Nymphaea pubescens, Nymphoides indica, and Oenanthe javanica were observed during different seasons. The lake was found to be infested with
abundant growth of invasive species such as Hydrilla verticillata, Limnophila aquatica, and Pontederia crassipes indicated eutrophication. Earlier study also found Alpinia nigra,
Polygonum barbatum, and Trapa natans, but not recorded during the study. Immediate and effective conservation efforts are needed to restore the diversity of macrophyte plant
species in Loktak Lake to safeguard the endangered species Sangai (Rucervus eldii eldii) from becoming extinct.
Keywords: Loktak Lake; Macrophytes; Community Parameters; Ramsar Site; Bioresources; Sangai
Research Article
Ethnobotanical species and traditional ethnocraft technology used by the Sherdukpen tribe of West Kameng district in Arunachal Pradesh, India
Rinchin Norbu Thungon, Pallabi Kalita Hui, Hui Tag*
Plant Systematics and Ethnobotanical Research Laboratory, Department of Botany, Rajiv Gandhi University, Rono Hills, Doimukh-791112, Arunachal Pradesh, India.
Department of Biotechnology, National Institute of Technology Arunachal Pradesh, Jote-791123, Papum Pare, Arunachal Pradesh, India.
*Corresponding author email: hui.tag@rgu.ac.in
Article No.: RTJBR90; Received: 05.12.2023; Peer-reviwed: 30.04.2024, Revised and Accepted: 25.05.2024; Published: 30.06.2024
DOI:https://doi.org/10.5281/zenod0.12636573
View Abstract | PDF
Abstract: Present study documents traditional ethnocraft products, technology and knowledge system of the Sherdukpen tribe residing in
Shergaon and Rupa circles of West Kameng district of Arunachal Pradesh, India. The study unveils 9 angiosperm species primarily used for crafting 20 types of ethnocraft products
crafted by the rural artisans. Some of the ethnocraft products were found to be utilitarian in nature, but unique to the community that help in securing rural livelihood. These
ethnocraft products also symbolize and portray traditional cultural expression and community identity of the Sherdukpen. IPR protection in the form of GI tag has been felt
essential to protect and promote the unique creativity knowledge, skills and innovative technology of the rural artisans.
Keywords: WTraditional Ethnocraft; Rural Artisans; Angiosperm Species; Creativity; Skills; Sherdukpen Tribe; Cultural Identity; Livelihood
Research Article
Traditional food and beverage products of Sartang tribe in West Kameng district of Arunachal Pradesh, India
Duyi Samyor1, Ajitabh Bora2*, Baikuntha J Gogoi2
1Department of Food Technology, Rajiv Gandhi University, Rono Hills, Doimukh-791112, Arunachal Pradesh.
2Defence Research Laboratory R & D Centre, DRDO Salari - 790001, West Kameng District, Arunachal Pradesh.
*Corresponding author email: ajitabh.drl@gov.in
Article No.: ABJBR75; Received: 10.08.2023; Peer-reviewed: 30.12.2023; Accepted: 15.05.2024; Published: 30.06.2024
DOI:https://doi.org/10.5281/zenod0.12702701
View Abstract | PDF
Abstract: Field study conducted in Sartang dominated Salari village of West Kameng district of Arunachal Pradesh has documented 23 types
of traditional food and beverage products derived from cultivated and wild plant species, domesticated animal and fishery sources. It also documents traditional food processing
technology, knowledge and methods. Investigation has revealed some unique traditional food processing methods and knowledge system which has the deep linakges with local culture,
traditional customs and tribal world view. Diversity of traditional food system recorded from Salari village has the potential to ensure local food, nutritional, commercial and
livelihood security to the Sartang community and the adjacent tribes.
Keywords: Beverages; Diary Product; Salari; Sartang Tribe; Traditional Food; Livelihood Security; West Kameng; Arunachal Pradesh
Research Article
New freshwater fishes discovered in Arunachal Pradesh, India: an updated checklist and database in Rajiv Gandhi University Museum of Fishes
Lakpa Tamang and Debangshu Narayan Das*
Fisheries and Aquatic Ecology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Rajiv Gandhi University, Rono Hills, Doimukh-791112, Arunachal Pradesh, India.
*Corresponding author email: dndas2011@gmail.com
Article No.: DNDJBR62; Received: 20.10.2023; Peer-Reviewed: 22.04.2024; Accepted: 30.04.2024; Published: 30.06.2024.
Doi: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.13284592
View Abstract | PDF
Abstract: The type specimens, identified voucher specimens housed in the Rajiv Gandhi University Museum of Fishes (RGUMF) and all the
relevant evidential literatures pertaining to discovery of new fresh water fishes in Arunachal Pradesh have been reviewed, updated and enumerated since the foremost pioneering work
of McClelland (1839). The perusals on literatures revealed discovery of 25 more species compared to preceding report of 47 species, herein added to 72 species, belonging to 14
families and 25 genera, mostly bottom feeders and accordingly a total of 54 images are presented in this paper. It is thus believed that this documented information would be of
great scientific significance for ichthyologist, taxonomist, conservationist, planners and local communities of the state.
Keywords: Freshwater Fishes; New species; Review Checklist; Trophic Niches; RGUMF; Arunachal Pradesh
Research Article
Phytomedicines use for the management of perineal laceration among the Karbi tribe of Assam, India
Reena Terangpi1,2, Dwimu Basumatary3, Farishta Yasmin3*
1Department of Botany, Gauhati University, Jalukbari, Guwahati -781014, Assam, India.
2Department of Botany, Barnagar College, Sorbhog-781317, Barpeta, Assam, India.
3Department of Botany, Nowgong College (A), Nagaon-782001, Assam, India.
*Corresponding author email: farishtayasmin4rs@gmail.com; reenaterangpi@barnagarcollege.ac.in;
Article No.: RTJBR63; Received: 14.07.2023; Peer-Reviewed: 02.03.2024; Revised & Accepted: 30.05.2024; Published: 30.06.2024
DOI:https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.13826769
View Abstract | PDF
Abstract: Traditional medicines are the main source of primary healthcare of the Karbi tribe of Karbi Anglong district of Assam and therapeutic utilization of medicinal plants for management of perineal laceration were known since time immemorial. The present study aimed to highlight the phytotherapy for perineal laceration and its significance among the Karbi tribe. Data are collected from randomly selected areas of the district where practices of ethnomedicines for gynaecological issues are in common. Interview methods (unstructured and semi structured) were adopted followed by group discussions from 37 informants (Female =30; Male =7). Importance of the plant medicines among the tribes were quantitatively determined by using ethnobotanical indices viz. RFC (Relative Frequency of Citation), Fidelity Level (FL in %), Important Values (IVs) and Frequency of exploited plant part (F). The study revealed the use of 8 medicinal plants (7 genera with 8 species) belonging to 4 families in the management of perineal laceration. Most of the medicinal plants recorded in this study attained the highest RFC of 1 while two plants Pogostemon benghalensis (Burm. f.) Kuntze. and Clerodendrum infortunatum L. has the least RFC with 0.56 and 0.51 respectively. FL has 100% at the maximum which indicates that the recorded plant species are considered as most important for the treatment of particular ailment. Traditional birth attendant and elderly women play an important role in child birth and healing of perineal wound through applications of phytomedicines. Further, pharmacological analysis would help in discovery of important plant based pharmaceutical drugs.
Keywords: Karbi Tribe; Medicinal Plants; Perineal Laceration; Child Birth; Traditional Birth Attendant
Research Article
Point pattern analysis and consensus of agreements on traditional knowledge of medicinal plants used by traditional healers of Tripura
Sojeetra Niral Hansrajbhai*, Prasenjit Patari, Sanjoy Das, Rohit Kumar Ravte
Regional Ayurveda Research Centre, Agartala 799002, Tripura, India.
*Corresponding author email: sojitra.niral227@gmail.com; Mobile-9574980226
Article No.: SNJBR92; Received: 18.05.2024; Peer-Reviewed: 14.06.2024; Revised & Accepted: 20.06.2024; Published: 30.06.2024
DOI:https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.13831177
View Abstract | PDF
Abstract: Every plant species created by nature has more or less medicinal properties. Medicinal plants have been used in Indian culture since
the dawn of human civilization. Plants are found to be directly and indirectly involving in treatment of human ailments and improve socioeconomic status. Traditional healers of Northeast
India have gained a special reputation in treating various terminal diseases. This research was carried out in Tripura state to preserve the traditional medicinal knowledge of the plants.
Traditional healers were chosen through field survey, and ethnomedicinal data were collected using semi-structured, and open-ended interviews. Information on traditional practitioners
age, place of practice, experience, learning methods, diseases treated, diagnostic approaches, as well as the storage and usage of plants, were systematically gathered during the field
interviews. A total of one hundred respondents have provided data, the majority of whom were from the Scheduled Tribe category and had a middle socioeconomic background.
The results of the Pearson's Correlation test indicate a significant association between caste, age, and gender with ethnobotanical knowledge at 0.05 level. Traditional healers
utilize 248 plant species belonging to 56 genera and 37 families which treat 75 types of ailments. Analysis of ethnobotanical indices such as UR, UV, FC, RFC, and FL (%) values
indicate that Tinospora cordifolia, Piper nigrum, Zingiber officinale and Antidesma roxburghii were found to be most potential plant species against certain specific ailments
according to practitioner knowledge. The fact that hepatobiliary disease has the highest ICF value (0.37) suggests that these conditions are prevalent in the research area and
that the species has traditionally been utilized to treat them. Phytoconstituents and pharmacological activities are unquestionably required to validate the ethnic uses of
potential plants. Everyone should participate in the preservation of floral diversity since plants are essential for the production of new drugs for preventing a variety of
complicated disorders.
Keywords: Medicinal Plants; Traditional Healers; Tripura; Phytoconstituents; Preservation; Floral diversity
Research Article
Nesting ecology of the Lesser Adjutant Stork (Leptoptilos Javanicus Horsfield) and prevailing threats on their survival
Madhusmita Bordoloi, Bhabana Das and Jyotismita Das*
1Department of Zoology, Nowgong College (Autonomous), Nagaon, Assam, 782001, India.
*Corresponding author email: dasjyotismitaecology@gmail.com
Article No.: JMDJBR98; Received: 28.05.2023; Peer-Reviewed: 15.12.2023; Revised & Accepted: 10.05.2024; Published: 30.06.2024
DOI:https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.13915188
View Abstract | PDF
Abstract: The nesting ecology and threats of Lesser Adjutant Stork were studied in the areas near the Kolong river, Nagaon, Assam.
The study was conducted during the post-breeding season. For determining the use of nesting habitat and trees, the height of the tree from the ground, Diameter at Breast Height (DBH)
and canopy coverage area were measured. For measuring the height of the tree, Pythagoras' theorem was used through a homemade clinometer. Autocorrelation was checked by the Durbin
Watson test. The Lesser Adjutants prefer upper canopy areas and areas with least vegetation and disturbance for the nest building. It was shown that the height of the tree, DBH,
in the canopy coverage area is significantly in a positive association with the nest. They build their nests near wetlands, rivers, foraging nests etc. The number of nests is
negatively associated with the distance to the nearest foraging areas. They prefer mostly Bombax ceiba tree for nesting, but also prefer Terminalia arjuna, and Neolamarckia cadamba
tree for nesting. During the post-breeding season, about 6 adults, 22 juveniles, and 13 nests were recorded. A maximum of five nests were recorded in one Terminalia arjuna.
On the basis of findings, it has been shown that human activity (road construction) is the major threat to the loss of their habitat and population. Therefore, conservation of the
Lesser Adjutant stork is necessary through conservation of nest, wetlands and the mature trees like Bombax ceiba, Terminalia arjuna etc. for the future.
Keywords: Canopy coverage area; Conservation; Diameter at Breast Height (DBH); Nesting Colonies; Vegetation; Wetlands.
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